Tiffanny Junee

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a buzzword in recent years and its impact on various industries undeniable, with applications ranging from healthcare to education.

So what is it really?

AI stands for Artificial Intelligence, which refers to the ability of machines or computer systems to perform tasks that would typically require human intelligence.

AI encompasses a range of technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision, which enable computers to process and analyse large amounts of data, recognise patterns, and make decisions based on that data.

Some examples of AI applications include image recognition, speech recognition, autonomous vehicles, and chatbots.

AI is a rapidly evolving field that has the potential to revolutionise many aspects of society, from healthcare to finance to transportation.

A.I in Education

One of the sectors that have been significantly impacted by AI is education, especially tertiary education. In this post, we will look at the benefits of AI in tertiary education.

1. Personalised Learning

AI-powered systems have the potential to offer personalized learning experiences that cater to the needs and learning styles of each student. By analysing students’ data, including their performance, progress, and behavior, AI can create customised learning plans and suggest appropriate resources and activities for each student.

2. Improved Student Engagement

AI-powered systems can enhance student engagement by providing interactive and immersive learning experiences. For example, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies can create simulations and scenarios that allow students to apply their knowledge in a practical and engaging way.

3. Efficient Grading

AI-powered grading systems can help alleviate the burden on instructors by automatically grading assignments, quizzes, and exams. This frees up instructors’ time, allowing them to focus on providing feedback and support to their students.

4. Enhanced Accessibility

AI-powered systems can improve accessibility for students with disabilities. For example, speech recognition software can help students with hearing impairments by transcribing lectures and discussions in real-time. Additionally, AI-powered chatbots can provide support to students 24/7, answering questions and offering guidance, especially for those who may have difficulty reaching out to instructors during office hours.

5. Personalised Student Support

AI can also support student services, such as advising, counseling, and career services. By analyzing students’ data, AI-powered systems can provide personalised support, such as suggesting courses, internships, and job opportunities that match students’ interests and skills.

6. Data-Driven Decision Making

AI can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of teaching strategies and the learning outcomes of courses.

By analysing large amounts of data, AI-powered systems can identify areas of improvement and suggest changes to improve student performance and engagement.

AI has the potential to revolutionise tertiary education by providing personalised learning experiences, improving student engagement, and enhancing accessibility.

Additionally, AI-powered systems can free up instructors’ time, provide personalised support to students, and offer valuable insights for data-driven decision-making.

As the adoption of AI in education continues to grow, we can expect to see even more benefits in the years to come.

Government & NGOs

In Australia, both government and non-government organisations are exploring the potential of AI to improve efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation.

Government organizations using AI in Australia include:

1. The NSW Department of Education

The NSW Department of Education has been exploring the use of AI to improve teaching and learning outcomes. The department has partnered with Microsoft, IBM, AWS, and other AI suppliers to develop AI-powered chatbots, learning management systems, and predictive analytics platforms that can improve student outcomes and enhance the efficiency of its operations.

2. Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has been using AI to streamline its tax compliance processes. The ATO has developed an AI-powered platform that uses machine learning algorithms to identify potential tax fraud, reduce processing times, and improve compliance with tax regulations.

3. Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has been using AI to detect potential financial fraud and misconduct. ASIC has developed an AI-powered surveillance system that can analyze large volumes of financial data to identify potential risks and anomalies, allowing for more targeted investigations and enforcement actions.

4. Department of Home Affairs

The Department of Home Affairs has been using AI to enhance its border security operations. The department has developed an AI-powered platform that can analyze passenger data to identify potential security risks and expedite the clearance of low-risk passengers.

Non-government organisations using AI in Australia

1. Atlassian

Atlassian, a leading software company based in Sydney, has been using AI to improve its customer service operations. The company has developed an AI-powered chatbot that can provide personalized support to customers and automate certain tasks, freeing up staff time for more complex issues.

2. Cochlear

Cochlear, a medical device company that produces hearing implants, has been using AI to improve its products and services. The company has developed an AI-powered platform that can analyze patient data to provide personalized recommendations for hearing solutions and improve the effectiveness of its implants.

3. Westpac

Westpac, one of Australia’s largest banks, has been using AI to improve its customer experiences and reduce costs. The bank has developed an AI-powered chatbot that can provide personalized financial advice and support to customers, as well as an AI-powered fraud detection system that can identify potential risks and prevent fraudulent transactions.

4. Australian Football League (AFL)

The Australian Football League (AFL) has been using AI to enhance the fan experience. The league has developed an AI-powered platform that can analyze fan data to provide personalized recommendations for merchandise, ticketing, and other services, as well as improve the quality of live broadcasts and highlight reels.

Where to now?

AI is becoming an increasingly important technology in Australia, with both government and non-government organizations exploring its potential to improve efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation.

From healthcare to finance to sports, AI is being used in a variety of industries to transform operations and enhance outcomes.

As AI technology continues to evolve, while we will see even more innovative applications of this technology in Australia and around the world. As citizens, government officials and business owners who is looking to who, what and where to practice, use, apply and manage all the possible implications and activities of AI?

How are we ensuring that it is sustainably harnessed in alignment with the Australian constitution?

Or has that moment in time already passed us by and like social media, what will be will be and policy and protections will only be imposed post crisis?

This article was written by AI as an example of how refined machine learning algorithms are and what they are capable of…#FoodForThought